HC Deb 20 December 1934 vol 296 cc1320-1
41. Mr. R. T. EVANS

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will investigate the circumstances of the revocation of the coracle fishing licence of Mr. William Owens, who secured his livelihood by this means on the River Towy; and whether he is aware that licences have been reissued to some who have other forms of employment and that this is in contravention of the terms of the Order defining the powers of the fishery board concerned?

Mr. ELLIOT

I have already made inquiries into the circumstances of the case referred to in the first part of the question, and upon the information which I have received Mr. Owens does not appear to have been a regular holder of a coracle fishing licence or to have satisfied the qualifying conditions that would entitle him to preference in the granting of licences under the terms of the relative Order. I understand, however, that the licensing committee of the fishery board have made arrangements whereby Mr. Owens will be enabled to fish. I am not aware of the circumstances of the other persons referred to in the last part of the question, but the responsibility for the issue of licences rests with the licensing committee, and I have no authority to intervene.

Mr. EVANS

Is it not a fact that the rights of the fishery board are governed by the Order, and is it not also a fact that the Order insists that preference should be given to those whose livelihood is earned entirely out of coracle fishing?

Mr. ELLIOT

I am afraid I could not go into the merits of any particular case at Question Time.

Mr. MORGAN JONES

Is it not the case that most explicit assurances were given to this House, when the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act was passing through, that the rights of these fishermen would be amply safeguarded?

Mr. ELLIOT

They are amply safeguarded, and they have in fact a majority on the licensing committee.

Mr. EVANS

If I provide my right hon. Friend with information which, to the best of my knowledge, is contrary to that which has been provided to him, will he reopen this matter?

Mr. ELLIOT

I shall be glad to examine any information which is laid before me by my hon. Friend.